Celebrities have been contouring and bronzing their faces for a while now, and this trend has become even more popular lately.
From TikTok stars to popular Instagram influencers, you’ve probably seen videos showing how these products can transform your face.
But here’s the thing – they might look alike, which can be confusing. However, they’re not the same.
Contouring gives your face depth and shadows to make it look sculpted, while bronzer adds a nice sun-kissed glow.
If you’re feeling a bit puzzled about the whole bronzer vs contour thing, no worries – I’ve got your back.
Today, I’ll explain the difference between bronzer vs contour and teach you how to use them to get that dreamy, sun-kissed, sculpted look. I’ll also suggest some great contour and bronzer products you can buy.
What is bronzer?
So, what exactly is a bronzer? This makeup thing can make your skin look like it’s been kissed by the sun.
And guess what? It comes in different ways, like liquid, cream, or powder. People use it to give their face a cozy, warm look, kind of like when the sun shines on your skin.
These bronzers have many colors, like yellow, olive, gold, or even a hint of red.
What is contour?
Think of contouring like an artist’s trick for shaping and defining your face. It’s like using a magic wand to make certain parts stand out. You use it along with a highlighter to make things pop.
Just like bronzer, contouring comes in different types: liquid, cream, or powder.
It copies the shadows your face has naturally, giving it a more sculpted look.
In simpler words, contouring gives your face a more defined look, making it stand out and showing its shape.
So, what’s the buzz about bronzer vs contour?
Bronzer vs Contour: What’s the difference?
The big difference between bronzer and contour is what they do to your face.
Bronzer adds a warm sun-kissed glow like you’ve been on vacation. Contour, on the other hand, creates shadows to shape your face and make it look more defined.
Bronzer goes where the sun naturally hits your skin, while contour is used smartly to create shadows that change how your face looks. For example, it can make your jawline sharper, your nose slimmer, or your cheekbones stand out.
Another bronzer vs contour difference lies in color and finish.
Bronzer often has warm colors like orange, red, or yellow, and it can make your skin shine. On the flip side, contouring shades are neutral or cool-toned, like earthy colors, and usually don’t shine – they have a matte finish.
Where to apply bronzer and contour?
Now that you’ve got the lowdown on bronzer vs contour, you might be thinking, “Where do these go on my face?” or “Do I just slap them on in the same spots?.”
Bronzer is put on the cheekbones, forehead, and nose to give the skin a tanned look and depth. It mimics sun-kissed skin, so it goes where the sun usually touches.
You can even use it on the eyelids instead of eyeshadow.
Contouring sculpts your face, so you can use it under the cheekbones to make them stand out and on the nose to make it seem slimmer. You can also put it on the forehead to make it smaller and on the jawline to define it.
How to apply bronzer?
Are you wondering how to apply bronzer correctly?
Here’s the deal: nailing the art of bronzing depends on how you place the product.
Let me break it down into three simple steps for you:
1. Grab A Bronzer & Brush
First off, grab a bronzer that’s a little darker than your skin.
No need for anything too flashy – neutral shades are where it’s at. Now, grab a brush or a sponge.
A damp sponge blender is your go-to if you’re going with a cream or liquid bronzer. For the powder version, go for a bronzer/contour brush or a fluffy one like the kind you use for makeup.
2. Sweep Bronzer Across Your Face
Time to put that bronzer to work. Focus on the spots where the sun would give you a warm hug.
Start at your temples, then glide it along your hairline. Next, give those cheeks a swirl with bronzer and blend it out towards the sides of your face.
A little dusting on your nose bridge adds a nice touch. Remember to blend in circles to keep things smooth and natural.
3. Glow On, Everywhere
Take that glow beyond the face. Apply bronzer on your shoulders, collarbone, and the middle parts of your arms and legs.
Where you bronze depends on where you want that toasty vibe – like having your golden hour spotlight.
And there you go – you’re all set to rock that bronzer like a pro.
How to apply contour?
When talking about contouring, everyone’s face is unique, and there are some tricks to nailing it.
In this section of bronzer vs contour, I’ll share how to apply contour for a flawless finish:
1. Buy Contour & Brush
Find a contour shade a couple of shades darker than your skin tone. If you’re using contour powder, grab an angled brush. For cream or liquid contour, go for a damp sponge blender.
2. Map Out Your Moves
Now, let’s “map your face.” This step involves figuring out the best spots to contour based on your facial features.
It’s like creating a secret pattern on your face.
While there are many contouring techniques, a good rule is to imagine you’re drawing a number 3 on both sides of your face – this covers your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline.
3. Work the Contour
Start by swiping your contour product along your temples or your hairline, depending on your face shape.
Then, sweep it down to the hollows of your cheekbones to give them that extra definition (that’s the middle of your imaginary “3”).
Lastly, for your jawline, apply the product along the edge of your jaw, moving it forward.
4. Blend It In
Once you’re done with the contouring, it’s time to make everything blend seamlessly.
Depending on whether you use cream or powder, you can use a sponge blender or a makeup brush. The goal is to make it all look smooth and natural.
So there you have it – you’re now in the know about bronzer vs contour, and you’ve got the insider techniques to rock both like a total pro.
Can I use a bronzer as contour?
Normally, it’s a good idea to use bronzers and contours as separate things to get the nicest result.
But, if you’re in a hurry, you could use contour as a bronzer, especially if it’s a warm shade that gives a nice glow.
It depends on the product and the look you’re after – sometimes bronzer can also do the contouring job.
But if you aim for a more defined look, like sharp cheekbones or a slimmer nose, it’s probably wiser to go with a classic matte, neutral contour.
The Best Contouring Products
Now that you’re familiar with bronzer vs contour, here’s a list of the best contours available.
These options are great for beginners as they are buildable to create the perfect look.
From affordable drugstore choices to high-end favorites, these will help you sculpt your complexion flawlessly.
Best Liquid Contour: Giorgio Armani Beauty Neo Nude A-Contour
The Giorgio Armani Beauty Neo Nude A-Contour is like an artist’s secret tool for enhancing your facial features while keeping that authentic, everyday vibe.
It lets you contour and shape your face effortlessly, bringing out your best angles without fuss.
Even if you’re new to the contouring game, this product’s got your back.
The only downside? This liquid contour only comes in two shade options, 20 and 21.
Best Contour Stick: Clinique Chubby Stick Sculpting Contour
New to the contouring game? Begin your journey with a contour stick.
Clinique’s chubby is my favorite contour stick: its creamy texture effortlessly blends with my foundation, and its subtle translucency eliminates any worry of uneven application.
Gently glide it along your cheekbones, then work your magic using a delicate, fluffy brush or even your fingertips.
Best Contour Powder: ICONIC London Precision Duo Contour Pot
Can’t make up your mind between a shiny cream or a tough powder for contouring?
Well, now you don’t have to. Iconic London has this new set that lets you do both.
Put on the creamy stuff for a nice glow, and then use the powder contour to make it stick around all night (or at least until you’re done).
Best Cream Contour Palette: Sleek Makeup Cream Contour Kit
On the hunt for a drugstore contour option? Check out Sleek’s contour palette – as good as high-end choices.
The cream shades are smooth, not tacky, and you can build and mix them to tone down or highlight areas like your jawline, nose, and cheekbones.
You’ve got three shade sets to choose from, catering to various skin tones.
The Best Bronzer Products
The best bronzers not only give you an instant boost of beauty but also contain ingredients that can gradually enhance your skin’s appearance.
In this section of bronzer vs contour, I’ll share the bronzers I love.
Best Liquid Bronzer: E.L.F. Cosmetics Halo Glow Contour Beauty Wand
The E.L.F. Cosmetics Halo Glow Contour Beauty Wand is a recent release gaining popularity on TikTok thanks to its knack for adding a touch of warmth.
With a soft applicator, you can apply it precisely, and its smooth, creamy texture blends effortlessly.
The best part? This liquid bronzer comes in five shades that suit various skin tones.
Best Bronzer Stick: Rare Beauty Warm Wishes Effortless Bronzer Stick
This cream bronzer stick is an excellent option for starting with cream products.
I like its easy-to-use formula, handy packaging, and long-lasting performance. It strikes the right balance between being creamy without being oily, making it simple to apply and blend alongside other products.
A couple of swipes of the well-pigmented formula are all you require to add a touch of color to your complexion.
Best Bronzer Powder: L’Oreal Infallible Up to 24H Fresh Wear Soft Matte Bronzer
If you’re searching for a drugstore bronzer, I really like L’Oréal Paris’s Infallible 24H Fresh Wear Soft Matte Bronzer. It comes in eight shades, and I find its formula one of the best for a lasting and matte finish.
The best part is that it’s waterproof, non-comedogenic, and stays on without fading for a whole day.
Best Bronzer Palette: Patrick Ta Beauty Major Sculpt Crème Contour & Powder Bronzer Duo
Are you having trouble deciding between a powder or cream bronzer?
The Patrick Ta Beauty Major Sculpt Crème Contour & Powder Bronzer Duo has you covered. This contour kit, available in three shades, offers the perfect blend of both options.
You get a gentle powder for a natural contour and a richer cream for a bolder look – all in one palette.
Wrapping Up
So, now you get why bronzer vs contour is a matter of discussion. It’s easy to see why people get puzzled since the shades can seem similar. Yet, they each have their unique roles.
Bronzer gives you that sun-kissed glow, while contour works magic by creating shadows and dimension on your face. So, contouring and bronzing are your go-to moves whether you’re aiming to bring in warmth, structure, or both.
How about you? Are you Team Bronzer or Team Contour? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
FAQs
Should I use bronzer or contour?
If your goal is that post-vacation glow, then bronzing is the trick. On the flip side, contouring is all about cleverly adding shadows to specific spots, giving your face a more sculpted and well-defined appearance.
Is bronzer more natural than contour?
In a way, yes. Bronzing tends to create a more natural look compared to contouring. Contouring is all about reshaping and enhancing facial structure, whereas bronzing is more about adding natural sun-kissed warmth to the areas where sunlight naturally falls on the face.
Should contour or bronzer be darker?
When contouring, choose a shade 2-3 shades darker than your natural skin tone. This helps to add depth and dimension to your features. On the other hand, for bronzing, opt for a warmer tone. This brings that sun-kissed warmth to your complexion.
